There are only 24 hours in a day and 7 days in a week. As a human, we are all limited on time. Work, school, family, and socialization all tie up our time. When it comes time to travel, we often think there isn’t much to think about. We often put this as “low priority” and not plan.

Sure, your bags are packed, and gas is filled but are you confident that everything is together for your trip? Little do you know, there are many “I didn’t think of that” moments, especially when you’re pressed for time. This hits home personally. Will get into a little story time about my own woes.

As a master organizer, I often think planning is a major strength. When it came to my first major trip, I failed miserably. Booking tickets too late, not picking a closer airport and skimming rules and regulations, I failed. It doesn’t stop there. Baggage issues and additional costs (not researching the economy of the destination) was a problem.

 It doesn’t stop there. Failing to estimate the fastest route to my destination from the airport. I did account for the distance but failed at not thinking about the fastest route (which could’ve saved more money). After seeing the bill of my taxi ride, I never wanted to jet back to the airport so fast.

A trip that should’ve taken 20 minutes (without traffic) took over an hour. Good stories, fast driving and plenty of bumps couldn’t override this trip. The driver pulled a “fast one”, taking advantage of being “an out of towner.” I had a sinking feeling but let fatigue and impatience cloud my judgment.

I was naive to major travel and didn’t know about shortcuts and travel “scams.” Here I am in this amazing destination but can’t enjoy it due to all these mishaps. Why did I let being pressed for time get in the way of being fully prepared? The entire trip was soured and for a while, I never wanted to travel again. That is until my inner pep talk decided to spin this around and turn this into a learning experience. 

 After assessing the situation, I had it in my heart to make sure no one experiences a travel catastrophe. Traveling should be a carefree experience you won’t forget. So as a starter, here are 3 tips that will turn your travel experiences around. 

Map out a detailed plan and stick to it!

 Having a detailed plan is key to avoiding any issues. With traveling, you want to plan (at minimum) a year in advance. With a plan, you will have a guide for an organized trip. As I like to put it, the go-to-guide. To help you out, create a plan that answers these questions:  

1. What are my overall interests, hobbies and passions in life? What best fits with these passions?

2. What are my goals for traveling? 

3. What is my availability to travel?

Who should I inform about my traveling plans? What are the procedures? Example: your boss, co-workers, family, friends, landlord, or constituents.

4. What is the correct time(s) to travel?

Note: I go into further detail below under Transportation is Everything.

5. How far am I willing to travel (domestic or internationally)?

6. Where would I like to go?

• Is tropical, country, adventure or city dwelling my preference?  

•  Do I want to walk away more culturally sound, entertained, educated or relaxed? 
• Do I want to travel to familiar places? If not, somewhere out of the norm? to something completely out of norm out of expressed interest and curiosity?

7. What type of activities am I seeking to fulfill? 

8. Is it family-oriented, entertaining, laid back, or fast-paced living?

• Do I want to venture to a museum, zoo, amusement park, play, concert, or recreational center? A sporting event, art exhibit, music fest, festival, restaurant, cafe, or social event?

In a future article, I will have some in depth tips on top activities to do on your trip. 

9. Who will be joining me on this trip?

• Is it family, friends, co-workers, acquaintances, or just myself?
• If I bring others along, do I know their availability, goals and interests? 
• To answer this, have the respective party join you in mapping out the plan. You never know what ideas you can bounce off. 

10.Where do I plan on staying?

11. What are their cancellation procedures, will they allow me to extend my stay?

You also have to account for the amenities.

• Can I send my luggage beforehand, is a microwave/refrigerator is provided? What are their housekeeping procedures and what is provided in the room (any complimentary toiletries/treats)?
• Do they have a computer access room, dining area, fitness center, pool, laundry area or snack stations? 
• What are the nearby eateries/stores/entertainment, are they in walking distance?
• What are their security procedures?
• Do they have a lost and found? Is a safe provided? How safe is the surrounding area? 

Throw these questions around and figure out what best fits your lifestyle.

Choosing your accommodations

Just like your home, you want your stay to be just as accommodating. When thinking about your choice of accommodation you figure, you won’t be staying indoors as much. That your plans are to spend majority of time sight-seeing and other social activities. Looking for one that is economical makes sense. That you don’t need all the extra amenities then, go with this. Research all available options and pick the best one. Just research well in advance and you should be on your way to having a great accommodation for your trip! Will go over some more tips in a future article. 

What and how much should I bring?

Have a checklist of items you think you will need before your trip. For example, technology, clothes, jewelry, documents, luggage, bags, and toiletries.  You should account if there are any restrictions or limitations (especially when traveling by air) on these items.

Accidents can happen so as backup, think of some items to bring along. Bringing along some emergency items such as band-aids, medication, or pain relievers will do you wonders.

Also think about the weather conditions of your particular destination. Will you need to have a jacket, coat, umbrella, or light clothing?

So, I encourage you to make a checklist of these items and marking them off. This will help you to prevent forgetting all your essentials for your trip. In a future article, I will touch upon what items you have in your travels. Plus, how to best organize them.

What is the required documentation and information I need to prepare for this trip?

Before your trip, you should have a check list of important documents that you will need beforehand. For example: your driver’s license, birth certificate, insurance cards, social security card, passport, visas, and bank cards. Check to see if they’re all in good standing.

Also are, there any rules and regulations do you need to know. You should also consider how to best protect these documents and organized during your travels.

 I highly recommend making a mental note to periodically check to make sure these documents are with you. If you have to write it down, do so. Before you leave your respective destinations, take a peek to make sure they’re all with you.  Keep them all organized in a central place so you know where they will be. If you have a habit of leaving things in your pockets, make a mental note. Check your pockets before you slumber. It’s easy to reach in your pocket and have them drop out by accident.

 Invest in a good wallet or comparable product that will keep your documents safe. If a safe is available, use it. You don’t want to have any issues with identify theft or transportation. Have an organized plan that will keep you safe. 

What Is My Budget

Assess your current financial situation and then estimate the costs of your trip. This can help you to plan your budget. Ask yourself the following questions.

• When should I start saving? How much should I be saving? If so, how much per week/month?
• How much money should I set aside as an emergency fund?
• Do I want to bring physical cash?
• What are all the costs included in this trip?
• What are any unforeseen costs I should account for?

For example: higher gas prices, inflation, changes in employment, or any other changes in life situations.  

The key is to start planning and saving early so you won’t be stressed financially. Set a goal that will keep you financially sound so you can continue to meet your financial obligations. Meet with your financial institution to see what products are available that will hit your goals. More financial tips are located below.

15. If preparing to travel internationally, do I have the necessary documentation? What factors are the most attractive about that destination? Is language and cultural differences an issue? How familiar am I with the regulations and lifestyle of that particular destination? The crime rate? Currency exchange? Any travel restrictions? The political unrest and stability of that destination?

16. What are my transportation preferences? What type of transportation do I need to obtain? What are the best options? I go into more details below under Transportation is everything. 

17. For my chosen destination(s), where should I research? Is it through travel agencies, website, word of mouth, and recommendations? Also, via social media, travel booking sites, articles, blogs or by phone?

These are the types of questions to ask yourself. Once you have assessed all these questions, you will be confident you have the perfect travel guide. I will now focus on a major key factor in your travels, transportation.

Transportation is Everything

Mapping out a plan at least a year in advance will do you wonders. Particularly, you have to account for costs and availability. This is truly vital with transportation. It can really make or break your trip, so please do an assessment in this area.

 Supply and demand is real and to score some great deals, you want to strike when they’re the hottest. With airlines, it’s usually when travel isn’t the busiest (holidays/summer). So, try to scout for deals during off-peak seasons (Winter or Fall). Try not book anything around holidays. Having a few extra coins in your pocket can go a long way (maybe a plan for another future excursion)!  The same is applicable with the other modes of transportation.

Plan Ahead of Time

The key is to plan ahead of time. Especially if you’re looking for a particular time frame to travel.  You don’t want to be hit with “everything is fully booked; we can’t accommodate you.”

At the same time, you want to keep on top of any special promotions. Primarily for companies that will be involved with your transportation, accommodations, meetings and social activities. Black Friday, Cyber Monday, the holidays, keep account of all promotions during these times. Plan to keep out for them well in advance. Bookmark their sites, subscribe to their email list, follow them on social, or even contact them personally. If you’re not aware, you can also visit the major travel sites such as Expedia, Super.com, Hotels.com, Groupon. Also, try free promocode sites to score amazing deals. 

The key is to be vigilant about getting a deal. I would recommend reaching out to merchants personally. Especially, if you don’t come across anything that suits your needs. Explain your story and what you’re looking for. All it takes is a phone call, an email, or a dm on social media. As the saying goes, you never know what you can get unless you ask. You have nothing to lose! 

Traveling A Distance

 If you’re traveling a distance, what is your overall transportation strategy? For instance, if traveling by air, what other transportation will I need? Uber, Lyft, taxis, private limo, bus, train, subway, boat or by foot? You also have to figure out what the overall cost associated with these options. Some questions for reflection. What is the fastest, most reliable and best bargain? Any deals or promotional codes I can apply. How far in advance do I have to book?

Also, have a backup plan in case anything changes with your transportation. Plan ahead for any disruption. For instance, if your flight is canceled, what are your alternatives? If your car breaks down, do you have access to rideshare or bus?

Pairing with this strategy, you want to know your destination’s surroundings. Even if you’re not good at directions, you still want to have a feel of your overall destination. Get familiar with the streets and landmarks. Spend some time on Google Maps or your destination’s website. You don’t ever want to be in a position of being lost and taken advantage of by “ travel scams.”

Road Trip isn’t Dead

If you’re planning a road trip, make sure your car or transportation is in reliable shape. The starter pack: engine is running at peak performance, battery is in excellent condition, and tires are properly inflated. Don’t forget, oil has been changed, coolants are leveled, and windshield wipers are in great condition. Take it to the mechanic and have them do a thorough check (avoid breakdowns)!

 If you want to save wear and tear on your car, try renting a car.  Check with AAA, your credit card rewards, or other service providers to see the available incentives for rentals. The key is to weigh the costs associated with renting vs your own vehicle. You want to account for stress, cost, convenience, and availability. Figure out which option is the best and stick with it.

 Also keep some road snacks, some good tunes rolling and plenty of hydration with you (water)! Note: please keep your plastic water bottles away from the sunlight to avoid poison. You may also want to invest in a gas container, portable jumper cables, flashlight, and spare tire. Throw in a printed map, blanket, pillow and emergency life kit and you’re set to go. It’s good to have throughout a year. Especially if an emergency arises in a cold. Keep them in back of your trunk. Also, a snow shovel for winter storms!

You also want to plan for any major congestion, road work, alternative routes, tolls, gas stations, eateries and rest stops on your route. Note: with rest stops, please account for higher food costs (due to convenience nature, can charge a higher premium). Cross check and compare the prices of any nearby comparable eateries off the highway. 

Check to see that your technology/phone is fully charged. Peep to see that your car insurance and registration is in the glove compartment. If you have access to these documents on your phone, take note of where they’re stored.

If you need a copy, obtain one via email or your insurance provider’s website. You also want to have your insurance provider’s number on speed dial. Also, check the lower corner of your windshield in the front for a phone number.  It is handy to make sure your driver’s license is on you before leaving the door. It is essential that all 3 of these items are up to date and in good standing. Your travel with go off smooth sailing. 

This might not be a biggie but please keep your car clean. You don’t want to speed up your interior’s deterioration and attract rodents. Add a dab of DAWN (or comparable generic brand) liquid soap to vinegar and give your car a good scrubbing. Rinse with water and you will have a fresh sanitized car (the smell is amazing)!  Plus, being clean just gives you a more positive vibe and mind frame.

Yes, we are in an era where physical money is going “out of style.” Also keep some emergency stash on hand.  Never want to be in a position where you’re depending on money and your check or card isn’t accepted. Head to ATM a few weeks before and mark your withdrawal as “emergency stash.” You can always deposit it right back after your trip. Always have a backup plan! 

2. Inform your banking institution about your travel plans.

This is a major key, especially if you have a very stringent financial institution. Let them know you will be traveling and making purchases in another location. Ask what steps you have to follow so there won’t be any disruptions with your financial activity. You don’t want to be hit with a “temporarily restricted/suspended your account due to suspicious activity” note.

Check your bank accounts and be alert for any critical messages from your financial institution. Check with your savings and checking balances to make sure they’re good. Make sure your credit is in good standing and your debit/ credit card(s) are activated.

Keep some petty cash on hand is also good for your protection. You want to be prepared if a merchant doesn’t accept credit/debit or checks. 

Before you start your travel, find the closest locations of your bank (ATM machines) around your destinations. If your destination has (cash withdrawal systems), are there fees? Is your financial institution compatible? You want to be fully prepared for any discrepancies or if you need cash on hand.

 If you do run into the issue of having your card suspended or reissued, don’t panic. Contact your bank and hotel. Find out from the hotel if you can accept mail there. If you can’t, explain you need an important piece of mail. Hopefully, your hotel will grant acceptance, just give a good explanation. The key is to find out beforehand. The hotel will let you know the protocol and how to accept your mail. Make sure you have your identifications available. Also, let your bank know that you’re traveling and staying at a hotel. If they can mail the new card to the hotel. You should be at ease. Just plan for all types of emergency scenarios before your trip. 

3. Safeguard your technology and stock up on portable chargers

Before you stuff your laptop, tablet or phone in your suitcase, please think twice about this. Even if you’re traveling by car, train, boat or plane, don’t leave these items exposed. Scratches and a crack screen aren’t a good look.

There are great products (that won’t break the bank) that will protect your tech during your travels. Invest in a good phone/ laptop case, sleeves, screen protectors, and protective materials for equipment. Carry-on bag and backpack that are made to protect your technology will also be a good investment. You don’t want to be fumbling your luggage and expensive equipment at the same time.  Also, if you don’t have this part of your plan, opt for insurance in case anything arises. 

As airport regulations are constantly changing, please read the fine print. Stay on top of the latest rules on what technology you can bring onboard. You don’t want to travel to the airport and get bad news. Find out ahead of time. Also, if you’re traveling through other modes of transportation, check their fine print as well. 

I can’t harp on this point enough, but portable batteries/chargers are life savers. Stock up on a couple before you hit your destination. Before you stock up, research portable batteries and chargers that are compatible with your technology. You can find out by reviewing your settings and matching with the specifications of the chargers you’re looking for. 

Also, make sure you have a few lighting cables, chargers, ports that are in good standing. If you have a digital camera, the same applies. There are some cool camera bags that protect your camera and equipment. I would highly recommend investing in a backpack made specially for cameras. You want to have free use of your arms while you’re traveling around. Plus, it will help protect your camera and equipment from damage and weather conditions.

If you’re staying at a hotel, check to make sure that your tech stays safe. You can find out from the hotel what their protocols are. Is a safe provided?

Also, try to keep your tech with you at all times. Frequently check to make sure you have your tech on you. It is easy to get lost in a conversation or an activity and forget things. So, before you leave the store, a meeting, restaurant table, bathroom, or hotel room, double check that you have everything.

If you do end up losing your belongings, retrace your steps and contact the destinations you visited. Many have cameras and a lost and found so, you should be able to get your belongings back.  The key is to be alert and check frequently that you have everything. You should make out alright.

With anything, you can make out a list that can be your “tech checklist.” Make a list of all your essentials so you won’t have to run out and get something. You don’t want to get to your destination and the item isn’t available. Gather all these items together (a few nights before you leave) and check them off.

If you don’t plan on traveling with a computer, check with your destination to see if computers are available. It is also applicable to check even if you’re bringing a computer. Things can happen and you want to have a backup plan. You can also research ahead of time places that have free access to computers. Check neighboring bookstores, office supply stores, phone stores or libraries. You will be on your way.

Conclusion

As with everything, planning takes time so please take your time and cover all bases. Set a goal to work on your plan. Create an outline (make use of the questions above) and you should be all set. This is my go-to-guide and I have had nothing but successful trips after my first disaster. I learn so much about myself and discovered places that weren’t on my radar. My life has been much better.

I personally use questions in all areas of my life. From work, personal development and recreational activities. Basically, all that I do, I set forth a plan and stick to it.

 If you’re the type of person that likes to do things on a whim, by all means do so. You still want to have a plan in motion (to prevent any unforeseen surprises). You want to make sure you’re financially sound and have the required documents. You don’t want to be lax. Having to travel somewhere far and having to right back around isn’t fun.

I hope the tips presented improve your travel itinerary. I know you will have a stress-free and rewarding travel experience that you deserve. Give these questions a try, research and take advantage of all the tips presented.

Look out for comparable articles in future that will further outline more traveling tips. Good luck and rock all your travel endeavors. 

Do you have plans to travel? Do you have any travel woes or tips you would like to share? Let me know in the comments below.